Thai Enquirer News Summary – August 21, 2026

On August 21, 2026, flooding in northern Thailand has expanded to include Sukhothai and Phitsanulok provinces, according to satellite imagery from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). The high-risk flood zones, coded in red, now cover significant portions of these provinces as well as parts of nearby Uttaradit, Phichit, and Sukhothai.

Nan province has reported the highest rainfall in the north at 254 millimeters, leading to evacuation and relief preparations. Over 16,000 people were affected in Pua, Santi Suk, and Mae Charim districts, with about 8,000 households impacted in Pua alone. In response, Nan established an incident command center at Pua district office and prepared to relocate residents to seven safe locations, set up shelters and field kitchens, and seek establishment of a royally sponsored field kitchen.

Crown Prince Pua Hospital was put on standby to treat flood victims, while Nan Hospital temporarily suspended outpatient services and shifted its emergency department to a field hospital. The hospital now delivers medicines to patients instead of providing in-person treatment. Former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as Pheu Thai Party advisor, urged all Pheu Thai ministers to visit flood-affected areas in upper northern Thailand over the weekend.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul pledged to support foreign investors, emphasizing the government's commitment to Japan's long-standing manufacturing presence in Thailand. He assured Japan's automotive industry that policies would remain flexible to maintain investor confidence as Thailand transitions to electric vehicles. Anutin instructed Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas to review support measures to ensure Japanese automotive investors do not face disadvantages during the EV shift, noting strong capital inflows of over 1 trillion baht last year and 530 billion baht in investments during the first half of 2026.